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Anytone  8R Series
 
Reference and FAQ Page

 


TERMN-8R     OBLTR-8R        NSTIG-8R       ANILE-8R
 
Although this RAFAQ page is meant to assist as a diagnostic aid, it should also be reviewed in its entirety in the early stages of radio ownership, as you will find references and operating hints not found in some of the manuals.
             
 
1.
   
Newest Radio and Firmware
1.1   Newest Version of the 8R series w/ Comparison
  1.2   Firmware Upgrades
  1.3   FCC Type Acceptance - Part 90 / 95
 
2.
   
Transmitter and Receiver
  2.1   I can't hear my local repeater (CTCSS)
  2.2   I can't hear my signal, but I hear the repeater squelch tail
  2.3   Aircraft frequencies
  2.4   Short Wave Reception
  2.5   Short Wave Antenna
  2.6   Weather frequencies - NOAA / NWS
  2.7   FM Radio Reception
  2.8   GMRS, MURS and NORMAL selection
  2.9   What is the Vice Machine
  2.10   STE - Squelch Tail Elimination 120, 180, 240
 
3.
   
Programming - Manually
  3.1   Adding a New Channel
  3.2   Deleting a Channel
  3.3   Channel Banks - Activate / Deactivate a Scan Bank
  3.4   Channel Banks - Add a channel to a bank
  3.5   Channel Banks - Delete a channel from a bank
  3.6   Aviation Band Scanning
  3.7   Cloning Process (2 radios, same model)
  3.8   Storing the 7th / 8th digit of a frequency
  3.9   Storing different frequencies in A and B
  3.10   Channel Display
  3.11   The purpose of 2 displays
  3.12   Dual PTT (Push to Talk)
  3.13   Synchronizing display A and B
  3.14   Storing FM    65-108 MHz channels in memory
  3.15   Storing AM  108-136 MHz channels in memory
  3.16   Switching modes from VFO to MR
  3.17   Switching to Dual Watch / Dual Standby
  3.18   Locking to a Specific Channel
  3.19   CTCSS / DCS Tone - Adding / Changing
  3.20   Squelch - Changing on the fly
 
4.
   
Programming - with Software
  4.1   Before Reading or Writing
  4.2   Entering a Receive CTCSS/DCS code
  4.3    Disabling the transmitter for receive only frequencies
  4.4    2TONE Alert Paging
 
5.
   
Scanning / Channel Banks
  5.1   Receiver Scan
  5.2   1 MHz Scanning Increments
  5.3   Adding / Deleting channel Banks (Section 3)
  5.4   Tone Scan
 
6.
   
Tone Access  (CTCSS, DCS, DTMF, 2TONE,. 5TONE)
  6.1   CTCSS / DCS tones - What are they
  6.2   Receive Tones - Not functioning
  6.3   How do I send a 1750 Hz tone
 
7.
   
Batteries and Accessories
  7.1   Battery Charging
  7.2   Cables, antennas, Spkr/Micr interchangeability
  7.3   Is a radio case a good purchase
  7.4   USB chargers
 
8.
   
Software, Cables & Drivers
  8.1   Software selection
  8.2   Creating the initial template
  8.3   Error Messages
  8.4   Generic Programming Cable & Drivers
  8.5   Genuine Programming Cables
  8.6   Building Your Own Programming Cable
 
9.
   
Microphone and Audio issues
  9.1   Microphone Location
  9.2   Low Transmit Audio
  9.3   PTT disabled when Spkr/Micr plugged in
  9.4   External Speaker Microphone options
  9.5   External Speaker Microphone Side Cover
 
10.
   
Antenna Questions
  10.1   Which antenna is best
  10.2   SMA Antenna Connectors
  10.3   Antenna doesn't screw in completely
 
11.
   
Display Questions
  11.1   LCD turns dark
  11.2   Battery Level Indicator and Warning
  11.3   Display disappears if I wear sunglasses
 
12.
   
General Questions
  12.1   Waterproof / IPX rating
  12.2   Radio shuts down
  12.3   Keypad is Locked  
  12.4   User Manual
       
       
       
     
       
Newest Radio and Firmware 
 
  1.1   The Newest Version of the 8R series?
The 8R series was introduced in Feb 2015.

Differences between radios - Comparison
 
 
  1.2   Firmware - Can it be updated?
Of the four 8R models available, the TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R have upgradable firmware. When future firmware upgrades are made available, these radios can be upgraded by an authorized dealer. 
 
 
  1.3   FCC Type Acceptance - Part 90 - Commercial
All 8R series radios are certified for FCC Part 90 commercial service in the US.
 
FCC Type Acceptance - Part 95 - GMRS / MURS
The two upper end models (TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R) are certified for both GMRS and MURS operation in the US. These channels and power levels are preprogrammed into the radio. CTCSS and DCS tones can be programmed individually to these channels.
 
GMRS requires licensing, MURS does not.
 

T4K-QZQX3318    T4K-8RSERIES
 
FCC Database link

 
 
       
Transmitter and Receiver
 
  2.1   I can't hear my local repeater (CTCSS)
Some Repeaters and Services require a CTCSS or DCS tone for access but DO NOT transmit one back. If your display indicates there is an incoming signal but you hear no audio, you may have an incorrect or unnecessary RX tone set. This can be tested by pressing the [MONI] button of the side of the radio. When in doubt, leave the CTCSS or DCS tones set to OFF.
 
 
  2.2   I can't hear my signal, but I hear the repeater squelch tail
The key here is that you can hear the repeater squelch tail.
You are too close to your receiver and over powering (de-sensing) it.
When this happens, you are blocking everything from your monitor.

1) Listen to your signal on simplex to verify you have audio.
2) Call someone on the repeater to verify your signal quality. If they can hear you, then all is fine.
 
 
  2.3   Can I receive Aircraft frequencies
TERMN-8R is the only model of the 8R series that is capable of receiving Aircraft Frequencies (108 - 136 MHz AM)
 
 
  2.4   Short Wave Reception
TERMN-8R is the only model of the 8R series that is capable of shortwave reception (2.3 - 30.0 MHz AM)
 
1)  The antenna supplied is specifically tuned for VHF/UHF frequencies. To take full advantage of this receive option, an antenna consisting of at least 10' to 20' of wire is recommended.
 
2)  Shortwave signals are strongest after sunset. Daytime reception will be poor during daylight hours.
 
 
  2.5   Short Wave Antenna
TERMN-8R

An easy way to connect a wire antenna is by using a pair of the adapters below.

1) SMA Female to BNC Female.
     This makes connect and disconnect easy.
2) BNC Male to Terminal Connector
     This allows any long length of wire to be connected by simply pressing the top terminal and inserting the wire.
 

Click to Enlarge
 

Connectors are available on eBay. (search: BNC Terminal)
The BNC/Terminal connector is also convenient for making temporary dipoles.
 
 
  2.6   Can I receive Weather channels - NOAA / NWS
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R have 7 preprogrammed NOAA weather channels with 1050Hz alert tone capabilities.
 
 
  2.7   FM Radio Reception
     TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R

Procedures can be found HERE
 
 
  2.8   GMRS, MURS and NORMAL selection
     TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R

To switch between operating modes:
 
- Press and Hold the PF2 button while powering on the radio until you hear an audible Beep tone. (approx 4 seconds)
- Press  B MAIN / C V/M  to select Menu 03
- PART95 will appear on the LCD
- Rotate the center knob to your selection.
- Press  D ESC  to exit.
 
GMRS and MURS frequencies, bandwidth and power levels are hardcoded in the firmware and cannot be altered.

CTCSS and DCS tones can be added manually as needed.
 
 
  2.9   What is the Vice Machine described in the manual.
The Vice Machine is simply the Sub Band or Lower Display.
 
 
  2.10   STE - Squelch Tail Elimination 120, 180, 240
STE (or 'Reverse Burst') is a method of shutting off a transmitters  CTCSS tone prior to the end of a transmission (approx 150ms) so the receiving parties squelch closes immediately, eliminating the squelch tail from being heard.
 
A full technical description can be found HERE
 
 
       
Programming - Manually
 
  3.1   Adding a New Channel
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R     Step-by-Step

NSTIG-8R     Step-by-Step
 
 
  3.2   Deleting a Channel
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
 
Select Channel Mode on display.
     (Channel # appears on right)
Press  A FUNC  then  C V/M
Rotate know to select channel to be deleted
Press  A FUNC
Press and HOLD  B MAIN  until a beep is heard

NSTIG-8R
 
Select Channel Mode on display.
     (Channel # appears on right)
Press  A FUN  then  C
Press  B  /  C   to select channel to be deleted
Press  A FUN
Press and HOLD  B  until a beep is heard

 
  3.3   Channel Banks - Activate / Deactivate a Scan Bank
     (without pushing too many keypad buttons)
  
- Select the MR/Channel mode     (C V/M)
- Press  A FUNC, then  5 SCAN
     While scanning, the active bank numbers appear on the right.
- Press and Hold the keypad button that corresponds to the bank you want to activate / deactivate.
     A message will appear:   BLK _ ON or OFF
- When you have the desired banks active, Press  D ESC
 
Note: Bank 0 selects ALL programmed channels
 
 
  3.4   Channel Banks - Add a channel to a Bank
 
- Enter Bank Mode on LCD
- Dial the desired Channel
- Press  # BANK
- Dial in desired Bank number
- Press  # BANK  3 times.  (see below)
Bank number has now been added to that channel.
 
Note: Pressing  # BANK  only twice allows you to add an additional bank to that channel.
 
 
  3.5   Channel Banks - Delete a channel from a Bank
 
- Enter Bank Mode on LCD
- Dial in desired channel / bank to be deleted
- Press A FUNC 
- Press B MAIN
- Turn channel knob forward and back to confirm 
 
 
  3.6   Aviation Band Scanning
After loading the desired channels into the TERMN-8R via software, do the following:

- Select the MR/Channel Mode  (C V/M)
- Press  A FUNC  then  1 FM
- A FUNC then * BAND will walk you through the band options
- Select  AM  (this is the Aviation Band)
- Press  B MAIN  to turn  AM ON
- Press  A MAIN  then  5 SCAN  to scan through stored channels
 
To turn Aviation Band off:
- Press  D ESC  to stop scan
- Press  B MAIN  to turn  AM OFF
- Press  A FUNC  then  1 FM  to return to normal operation
 
 
  3.7   Cloning two radios (same model only)
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
have cloning capability using a CP04 cloning cable.
 
All program data and parameters will be copied from the master unit to the slave unit. Both the master and slave must be the same model.
 
 
  3.8   Storing the 7th / 8th digit of a frequency
Enter the first 6 digits of the desired frequency.
The remaining digits will appear to the right of the frequency display.
 
Example: Enter   4 6 2 1 1 8 
What will appear is:    4 6 2 . 1 1 8  75
 
 
  3.9   Can I store different frequencies in A and B
No. There is only a single bank of 200 channels.
The same channels can be selected for either display.
 
The TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R has 10 memory banks
(1 for all channels and 9 capable of holding 32 channels)
 
 
  3.10   Channel Display
You have the option of of how a channel appears in the display.
If a Channel Name is entered for a specific channel, that Name will appear in the LCD. If no name is entered, the Frequency will appear.
 
 
  3.11   The purpose of 2 displays   (A and B)
Dual Receive. You can set each to a different preprogrammed channel. Your radio will sample between the two channels and listen to whichever one has activity.
 
Transmit Channel is selected by the A/B button only.
 
The TERMN-8R actually has 2 receivers for simultaneous listening, not just sampling of one receiver.
 
 
  3.12   Dual PTT (Push To Talk)
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
 
If SUBPTT is selected, PF1 or PF2 key can be used to transmit on the sub band frequency in the lower display, while the main PTT button can be used to transmit on the upper display frequency.

For this function to work, Both upper and lower displays must be active in the LCD window.

All 8R Models
A Dual PTT microphone will only function as a single PTT.
Only the Lower Side PTT button on the microphone will function. Top PTT button will have no effect.
 
 
  3.13   Synchronizing display A and B
Display A and B operate independently.
They cannot be synchronized to track together.
 
 
  3.14   Storing FM    65-108 MHz channels in memory
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
Store up to 100 FM Radio broadcast frequencies (64 to 108 MHz)
 
 
  3.15   Storing AM    108-136 MHz channels (Aircraft)
TERMN-8R
Stores up to 100 AM frequencies from 108-136 MHz  (Aircraft)
 
 
  3.16   Switching Modes from VFO (frequency) to MR (channel)
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
Press   C V/M
 
NSTIG-8R

Press   D ESC/M
 
 
  3.17   Switching to Dual Watch / Dual Standby
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
Press  * BAND  to cycle through A, B, or Both

NSTIG-8R

Press A FUN  then * BAND to cycle through A, B, or Both
 
 
  3.18   Locking to a Specific Channel
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
This can be accomplished by:
- Put the desired Channel into a Channel Bank by itself
- Select only that Channel Bank
- Lock the Radio
     Press   A FUNC
     Press and Hold # BANK until confirmation Beep is heard.
The selector will now have no where to go.
 
 
  3.19   CTCSS / DCS Tone - Adding / Changing 'on the fly'
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
This can be accomplished as follows:
- Press   A FUNC,  8 SET
- Press   1 FM   to select tone type  (OFF, CT, DCS)
- Rotate knob to desired tone
- Press   D ESC  to confirm.

GMRS and MURS: This change is permanent.
Normal Mode: Change is temporary. Resets on PowerOff.
 
 
  3.20   Squelch - Changing on the Fly
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
This can be accomplished by either by MENU entry or PF2 button.
 
via PF2 button  (PF2 must be MONI)
- Set to desired channel
- Press PF2 and rotate knob to desired squelch level
- Press   D ESC  to confirm

via MENU
- Set to desired channel
- Press   A FUNC,  8 SET
- Press   B MAIN / C V/M   to select SQL (40/25)
          TERMN-8R=40   OBLTR-8R=25
- Rotate knob to desired squelch level
- Press   D ESC  to confirm
 
Note: This change is temporary only (on the fly). Changing the channel will default back to the original setting.
 
This does not override a tone setting.  If a CTCSS/DCS tone is set on the channel, the incoming signal must have a tone on the TX to be heard, even at squelch level zero (0).
 
 
       
Programming - with Software
 
  4.1   Before Reading or Writing 
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R
The volume must be set to minimum or the channel needs to be quiet for the Read or Write function to start. Any sound coming through the audio line can interfere with the data transfer.
 
 
4.2 Entering a Receive CTCSS/DCS code
When entering a Receive tone (only if necessary) you need to change Squelch Mode for that channel from Carrier to CTCSS/DCS. If not the Decode Tone entered for that channel's receive will not be activated.

Click to Enlarge
 
 
  4.3    Disabling the transmitter for receive only frequencies
This can be done using the Transmit inhibit function of your software.
 
Using the Channel Tab, click on the  >>  under the More column to bring up the Channel Edit screen.
 
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
One of the options is TX Off. This will inhibit the transmit on that frequency.
 
ANILE-8R
Delete the data in the TX Frequency field.
 
 
  4.4    2TONE Alert Paging
2TONE Paging, aka Quik Call 1 or Two Tone Sequential, is commonly used by Public Safety pagers.
Programming the 2TONE Alert Paging procedure can be found HERE.
 
 
       
Scanning / Channel Banks
 
  5.1   Scan Function   Scanning is initiated by:
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
Pressing the  A FUNC  key, then pressing  5 SCAN
 
ANILE-8R
Pressing the assigned PF key.
 
 
  5.2   1 MHz Scanning Increments 
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
Press and Hold to  A FUNC  key while scanning in the VFO mode.
This will change the scanning step 1MHz.
Press and Hold to  A FUNC  key again to return to the standard step.

With the TERMN-8R, this also applies to scanning in the FM, SW, and Air Bands
 
 
  5.3   Adding / Deleting channels to a Channel Bank
Refer to Section 3 above (Manual Programming)
 
 
  5.4   Tone Scanning
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R / NSTIG-8R
If you are in the Channel Scan mode, press D ESC to stop the scan.

Tone Scan can be accomplished by:
- Pressing  A FUNC
- Pressing  3 TSCA
- The tone will appear on the LCD

Note: Not every repeater that requires a tone for access will transmit one back.
 
 
       
Tone Access (CTCSS, DCS, DTMF, 2TONE, 5TONE)
 
  6.1   What are CTCSS (PL) tones
A CTCSS is an 'Tone' sent along with your voice when transmitting.
They are used to access a specific repeater and block interference.
Visit CTCSS for details.

 
  6.2   Receive Tones are not functioning
This is a common oversight.
Software:
Click in the  >> under the  More  column.
Set Squelch Mode for that channel to the proper Tone Function.
Even if you have a CTCSS or DCS tone coded in the main channel data, you must activate the Squelch Mode.
 
Keypad
  TERMN-8R requires setting TONDEC (Menu 8)
  OBLTR-8R  requires setting TONDEC (Menu 9)

 
  6.3   How do I send a 1750 Hz tone (1450, 1000, 2100)
ANILE-8R  -  PTT  and  PF1/PF2 key  (set with software)
NSTIG-8R  - PTT  and  PF1/PF2 key  (Menu 28)
OBLTR-8R - PTT  and  PF1/PF2 key  (Menu 32)
TERMN-8R - PTT and  PF1/PF2 key  (Menu 47)
 
 
       
Batteries and Accessories
 
  7.1   Battery Charging
Do not leave the radio turned on while in the charger.
If the transceiver is powered on, it will continuously consume energy. The charger cannot detect when the battery has been fully charged and will fail to indicate correctly.

This could overcharge the battery and shorten its life.
 
 
  7.2   Cables, antennas, Spkr/Micr interchangeability
Many Kenwood / Wouxun / Baofeng accessories are interchangeable, such Spkr/Micr, Programming Cables, etc.
 
 
  7.3   Is a radio case a good purchase
If you carry your radio and keys in the same pocket, yes.
See Radio Shutdown under General Questions below.
 
 
  7.4   USB chargers
These radios have a 7.4 volt battery while a USB port is only 5.0 volt. There is not enough voltage to charge the battery. The standard charger supplies 8.4 volt during the charge cycle.
 
 
       
Software, Cables & Drivers
 
  8.1   Software selection
There are several software options.
- Factory Software -
     ANILE-8R   NSTIG-8R   OBLTR-8R   TERMN-8R
- CHIRP - Support for the 8R series is currently a work in progress.
 
 
  8.2   Creating the initial template
Once the initial template has been created (Read from Radio), that same template can be used to program multiple radios as long as the model is the same (all TERMN-8R or all OBLTR-8R, etc) – and their frequency range is the same.
 
 
  8.3   Error Messages
There are several  common error messages that could appear
when programming via software.  A list of these error messages, their definition and recovery can be found at Error Messages.
 
 
  8.4   Generic Programming Cable / Drivers
One of the major frustrations with programming is using generic, low cost programming cables. Most generic cables use Prolific chip clones/copies. When plugged into a USB slot, Windows will automatically load the latest driver. These drivers have been updated to reject cables using cloned chips.
 
These cables will work fine, but require loading backdated drivers. These drivers and details can be found at USB Cable Drivers
 
 
  8.5   Genuine Programming Cable
Programming cables utilizing an FTDI chip will work with no problems. These cables are truly "Plug 'n Play".
 
 
  8.5   Building Your Own Programming Cable
Another option is to build your own programming cable.
The Diagrams and Procedures can be found at:

USB to 2 Pin   -   Baofeng / Kenwood
USB to RJ-45   -   Leixen
RS232 to 2 Pin  -  Baofeng / Kenwood
General Technical Information
 
 
       
Microphone and Audio Issues
 
  9.1   Microphone Location
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R

Click to enlarge
 
  9.2   Low Transmit Audio
Here's are some suggestions:
1) Talk directly into the radio, within one inch.
2) Ham Bands Only - Set to Wide Band.  5 kHz (Menu 5=W)
3) Do not confuse the audio of a handheld with that of a smart phone that can hear a pin drop in the next room.
 
 
  9.3   Is PTT disabled when Spkr/Micr plugged in
No. Even with a Spkr/Mic plugged in, the PTT switch is still physically connected. This is true for most handhelds.
 
 
  9.4   External Speaker Microphone (ESM) options
All ESMs using a standard 2 pin connector are compatible. This includes Kenwood, Wouxun, Baofeng, etc.
 
 
  9.5   External Speaker Microphone Side Cover
TERMN-8R / OBLTR-8R

The protective cover on these radios can be easily removed. This could be convenient if you are using a Spkr/Micr or a programming cable on a consistent basis.
 
Remove the battery to expose where the rubber is attached to the frame. Gently remove the cover and reinsert the battery.
 

Click to Enlarge

 
 
       
Antenna Questions
 
  10.1   Which antenna is best?
It's all personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is:
The longer the radiator, the better the range, especially on transmit. Short stubby antennas use a coil to match TX to 50 ohm, not radiate. The closer to 1/4 wavelength in the air, the better the performance.

Field test results performed between 31 popular antennas can be found at  Field Tests.
 
An overview of antenna types available can be found at Best Antenna.
 
 
  10.2   SMA Antenna Connectors
There are several varieties of SMA connector. Male, Female, Reverse Polarity, etc. For diagrams of these varieties, go to SMA Antenna
 
 
  10.3   Antenna doesn't screw in completely
This is not uncommon on some aftermarket antennas. If your antenna doesn't come with a rubber spacer to fill the gap, you can purchase a thin 5/8" OD rubber O-Ring. Take your HT with you to the hardware store to assure the proper fit. Additional information can be found at Extended Threads
 
       
Display Questions
 
  11.1   LCD turns dark
This may occur if radio is exposed to excessive heat. 5 watts creates a lot of heat in a small unvented area. Give the radio time to cool down and the LCD will return to normal. This may occur if you leave the unit in the car on a hot day. Run low power whenever possible. This will also extend battery life.
 
 
  11.2   Translating the Battery Level Indicator
The battery level indicator shows 3 levels.
Level 3 indicates a full charge.
No indication indicates fully discharged battery.
 
Before automatically shutting down, radio will Beep 3 times as a warning. The Volume must be turned up to hear the battery level warning.
 
 
 
  11.3   Display disappears if I wear sunglasses
LCDs function by polarizing the liquid crystal elements in the display. Polarized sunglasses will react to the polarized lens. LCD Wiki
 
       
General Questions
 
  12.1   Waterproof / IPX rating
The IPX Code classifies and rates the degree of protection against water provided by a case or electrical enclosure.

This list ranges from IPX0 to IPX8.
- IPX0 = No Special Protection  to
- IPX8 = Protected against water submersion - The equipment is suitable for continual submersion in water under conditions which are identified by the manufacturer.

A detailed breakdown of these codes can be found at CODES.
 
The  OBLTR-8R / TERMN-8R have a certified waterproof rating of IP53.
 
 
  12.2   Radio shuts down
A case is recommended if you carry your radio and keys in the same pocket.  If the charging contacts are shorted, the battery goes into the protection mode. There will be no damage to the radio, but it will power off. To reset the protection mode, the battery must be removed and reinserted.
 
Note: If you carry a spare battery, place it in a small plastic bag for protection.
 
 
  12.3   Locking / Unlocking the Keypad
Press the  A FUNC  key, then Press and Hold the  #   key. You will hear a responding Beep indicating the Lock/Unlock function has changed.
 
 
  12.4   User Manual
User Manuals for the 8R series can be found at:
    ANILE-8R   NSTIG-8R   OBLTR-8R   TERMN-8R
 
 
       

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